U22 Vietnam clinched the SEA Games 33 gold medal: Winning with humility!

First and foremost, it must be frankly acknowledged that Vietnamese football was given optimal conditions for SEA Games 33.

SEA Games 33 should be regarded as a stepping stone, not the pinnacle. Ahead of U22 Vietnam lies the 2026 AFC U23 Championship, a completely different arena. There, opponents are not only physically stronger and faster but also superior in tactical organization and individual skills. Vietnam will no longer enter the tournament as the top favorite, nor enjoy the same preparation advantages as at the SEA Games.